jpx7 (10-31-2013)
That Lincecum contract could really screw things up for teams trying to pinch pennies. I want Hudson back, but the price of pitching is so high now that O'Brien may be right in contending that Hudson may get offers the Braves can't match and he'd be nuts to turn down.
I think they only give McCann the qualifying offer. He's another guy I'd like back, but I wouldn't go beyond three years with him and he's going to get four or five.
When I saw that Lincecum contract I was like "WTF"? The guy has been down tight horrid the past two years and it doesn't take a genius to figure out his arm is wrong or something as he went from a guy who constantly hit 95+ to hitting 90 like Tommy Hanson. I mean it must be nice to give a guy a contract based on what he did for you 3-5 years ago and just waste money. I really don't get that signing and it will cost them for sure as I don't see Tim bouncing back until they figure out whatever happened to his velocity.
While that may be true it is just facts. When you have played 1 full season out of 4 people are going to question if your injury prone. I mean the same could be said for a ton of Chippers injuries after he reached 30. No doubt we need him out there but can you really feel confident in getting 155 games from Heyward?
If Hudson gets an offer he cannot turn down, then let him walk. He likely won't be the impact pitcher for us that he was.
Ivermectin Man
I don't see Hudson leaving because the braves do have a good bit of money to spend for 2014 but can't really afford any multi year deals. Few good free agents will sign one year deals.
A few have been down on Reed Johnson. Remember this guy was dealing with an Achille's tendon injury (can't be the most fun way to play). His option is quite budget-friendly. The guy is still known to mash LH pitching, and he's versatile enough to play all 3 OF positions + even 1B. Picking up that option doesn't seem that controversial from here.
sounds like the scribes are hearing he'll get some multi year offers. If so, we need to bid him goodbye and thankyouverymuch, because at this age he's too risky. One year and a team option for year 2 with a decent buyout is all I'd go for. If anyone would give a hometown discount it would have to be Hudson.
If Hudson is getting multi-year offers, then, as much as I hate to say it, it's time to say goodbye to him. I'd bring him back on a one year deal, but not to a guy not far from 40 years old. And if Hudson does leave, then the Braves really need to get a top of the rotation starter.
Chopping With The Braves And Rolling With The Tide